Maharashtra Board Class 10 Social Sciences History and Political Science Paper 1 Question Paper 2024 with Answer Key

Step 1: Understanding the Mathura School of Art

The Mathura School of Art flourished during the Kushana period, particularly under the reign of Kanishka in the 2nd century CE. It is known for its distinctive red sandstone sculptures depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Jain Tirthankaras. Quick Tip: The Mathura School developed alongside the Gandhara School but focused more on indigenous Indian artistic traditions, using spotted red sandstone instead of the Greco-Buddhist style of Gandhara.

Step 1: Understanding Bhilar’s Title

Bhilar, a small village in Maharashtra near Mahabaleshwar, is popularly known as "Pustakanche Gaav" or the "Village of Books." It was declared as India’s first "Book Village" in 2017, inspired by the concept of book towns in Europe. Quick Tip: Bhilar has over 25 locations transformed into reading spots, with thousands of Marathi books available for visitors, promoting literature and tourism in the region.

Step 1: Understanding the Quote

The statement "human history is the history of class struggle" is a fundamental concept from Karl Marx’s work, particularly in "The Communist Manifesto" (1848). Marx and Engels argued that history has been shaped by conflicts between different social classes, primarily the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and the proletariat (working class). Quick Tip: Karl Marx’s historical materialism explains how economic structures influence social and political systems, leading to class conflicts that drive societal change.

Step 1: Identifying the Incorrect Pair

- Koodiyattam is correctly paired as a Sanskrit theatre from Kerala.
- Ramman is incorrectly stated as a dance form from West Bengal. It is actually a religious festival and ritual theatre from Uttarakhand, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
- Ramlila is correctly described as a traditional performance of the Ramayana in Uttar Pradesh.
- Kalbelia is correctly mentioned as folk songs and dances of Rajasthan, associated with the Kalbelia community. Quick Tip: Ramman is performed in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and involves masked dances, storytelling, and religious rituals, celebrating local deities.

Step 1: Identifying the Incorrect Pair
- Dashavatara is incorrectly paired with Tyagaraj. Dashavatara refers to a folk theatre form from Maharashtra, depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, not related to Tyagaraj, who was a Carnatic music composer.
- Khanjiri Bhajan is correctly associated with Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj, who used this form for devotional singing.
- Keertan is correctly attributed to Saint Namdev, a famous Marathi saint and poet known for devotional singing.
- Bharud is correctly associated with Saint Eknath, who developed this folk art form to spread spiritual messages. Quick Tip: Dashavatara is a traditional folk theatre form from Maharashtra, performed in temple courtyards, narrating mythological stories through music, dance, and drama.

Step 1: Identifying the Incorrect Pair
- James Mill is incorrectly labeled as a Feminist Historian. In reality, he was a Colonial Historian, known for his work The History of British India, where he divided Indian history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods, reflecting a Eurocentric perspective.
- Friedrich Max Müller was correctly identified as an Orientalist Scholar, known for his studies on Sanskrit literature and the translation of the Rigveda.
- Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade was a Nationalistic Historian and a social reformer advocating for Indian self-governance.
- Damodar Kosambi was a Marxist Historian, applying historical materialism to study ancient Indian history. Quick Tip: James Mill’s History of British India shaped colonial policies but was criticized for its biased view, portraying Indian civilization as inferior to European culture.

Types of Tourism refers to different ways people travel based on their interests and purpose.

The four major types of tourism include:

Eco-Tourism – Focuses on visiting natural environments while promoting conservation and sustainability.
Cultural Tourism – Involves exploring different cultures, traditions, heritage sites, and local lifestyles.
Adventure Tourism – Includes thrilling activities like trekking, scuba diving, bungee jumping, and mountaineering.
Medical Tourism – Traveling to another country for medical treatments, surgeries, or wellness therapies.


Tourism plays a significant role in economic growth, cultural exchange, and global connectivity. Quick Tip: Tourism is categorized based on its purpose. Other types include religious tourism, wildlife tourism, and luxury tourism.

Kaziranga National Park (Assam) was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its exceptional biodiversity, especially the one-horned rhinoceros.
Sundarbans (West Bengal) was recognized in 1987 due to its mangrove ecosystem and Bengal tiger habitat.
Western Ghats was inscribed in 2014 for its rich endemic flora and fauna. Quick Tip: UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in India include both natural and cultural heritage sites, helping in their conservation and global recognition.

Lalit is a form of Marathi folk theatre that integrates classical music with devotional themes, often performed in temples and cultural gatherings.
Bharud is a folk art form composed of poetry and music, primarily introduced by Saint Eknath, which conveys social and moral messages. Quick Tip: Bharud uses humor, satire, and storytelling to educate and entertain the masses, making it a powerful medium for social reform.

1. Sthalakosh:

Sthalakosh refers to a topographical dictionary or gazetteer that provides detailed geographical, historical, and cultural information about places.
It is an important source for researchers studying historical regions, administrative divisions, and changes over time.
These compilations help in understanding local history, cultural heritage, and socio-economic conditions.


2. Orientalist Historiography:

Orientalist historiography refers to the European study of Eastern societies, particularly Indian history, language, and culture.
Scholars like William Jones and Max Müller contributed significantly by translating Sanskrit texts and analyzing Indian traditions.
It was often criticized for having a colonial perspective but also helped in preserving Indian literary and historical records.


3. The Role of Newspapers in the Indian Struggle for Independence:

Newspapers played a crucial role in spreading nationalist ideas and mobilizing people against British rule.
Publications like Kesari, The Hindu, Amrita Bazar Patrika, and Hindustan Times created awareness about political issues.
They served as a platform for leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru to voice their opinions and inspire mass movements. Quick Tip: The press played a pivotal role in India's freedom movement by exposing British policies, promoting Swadeshi, and fostering unity among Indians.

1. Foucault called his method, ‘the archaeology of knowledge.’

Michel Foucault, a French philosopher, introduced the archaeology of knowledge as a method to analyze the history of ideas and discourse.
He argued that knowledge is shaped by historical structures and power relations rather than by a linear progression of ideas.
His method examines how knowledge is constructed and transformed over time through institutions, language, and societal norms.


2. It is necessary to preserve traditions like Chitrakathi, which is on the verge of extinction.

Chitrakathi is an ancient storytelling tradition from Maharashtra, where artists narrate stories using hand-painted illustrations.
Due to modernization and declining patronage, this traditional art form is fading away.
Preserving such traditions is crucial for maintaining India’s cultural diversity and heritage.


3. Toys can tell us about history.

Ancient toys found in archaeological excavations provide insights into the daily lives, technological advancements, and artistic expressions of past civilizations.
Toys made of terracotta, wood, and metal from the Indus Valley Civilization indicate craftsmanship and cultural influences.
Studying historical toys helps historians understand childhood, leisure activities, and social structures in different time periods.


4. The list of World Heritage Sites is announced by UNESCO.

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) designates World Heritage Sites to protect places of cultural and natural significance.
These sites include historical monuments, ancient cities, natural landscapes, and biodiversity-rich areas.
Recognition as a World Heritage Site promotes tourism, conservation efforts, and global recognition. Quick Tip: UNESCO World Heritage status helps in conserving historical and natural landmarks for future generations by ensuring international cooperation and funding.

1. Major Dhyan Chand is known as the ‘Wizard of Hockey’ due to his exceptional dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability.


2. 29^th August, the birth date of Major Dhyan Chand, is celebrated as National Sports Day in India to honor his contributions to Indian hockey.


3. Major Dhyan Chand led the Indian hockey team to three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928 (Amsterdam), 1932 (Los Angeles), and 1936 (Berlin).
His leadership and goal-scoring ability made India the dominant force in world hockey.
In the 1936 Berlin Olympics, he scored 3 goals in the final match, securing India's gold medal victory.
His remarkable achievements earned him the Padma Bhushan in 1956. Quick Tip: Major Dhyan Chand’s skills were so legendary that Adolf Hitler once offered him German citizenship and a high-ranking army position, which he refused.

1. 
Feminist historiography is an approach to history that focuses on the role, contributions, and experiences of women throughout historical events.
It critiques traditional history for being male-centric and aims to bring women’s perspectives, struggles, and achievements into historical narratives.
Notable feminist historians include Gerda Lerner, Joan Scott, and Judith Bennett, who have emphasized the study of women's history in different eras and societies.


2. 
Library management ensures systematic organization, preservation, and accessibility of information resources.
It helps in maintaining efficient cataloging, classification, and retrieval of books, journals, and digital materials.
Libraries play a key role in education, research, and knowledge dissemination, making effective management essential.


3. 
The field of arts offers diverse career opportunities such as:

Visual Arts – Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Design.
Performing Arts – Acting, Dance, Music.
Media and Communication – Journalism, Film-making, Advertising.
Cultural Management – Museum Curator, Art Historian.

The creative industry contributes significantly to culture, entertainment, and social development.


4. 
Dashavatara theatre is a traditional folk drama from Maharashtra and Karnataka, depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
It is performed in temple courtyards and public spaces, blending music, dance, and storytelling.
The performance involves elaborate costumes, mythological narratives, and devotional themes, keeping alive a rich cultural heritage. Quick Tip: Folk theatre forms like Dashavatara preserve mythological stories and cultural values, ensuring their transmission to future generations.

Step 1: Understanding the 73^rd and 74^th Amendments

The 73^rd Amendment Act (1992) granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions, empowering rural local governance.
The 74^th Amendment Act (1992) provided constitutional recognition to urban local bodies (Municipalities).


Step 2: Why is the Answer (b) Correct?

Both amendments strengthened local self-governance by providing decentralization of power to grassroots democracy.
These amendments added Schedules 11 and 12 to the Constitution, listing functions of Panchayats and Municipalities. Quick Tip: The 73^rd and 74^th Amendments empower local governance, ensuring democratic participation at the grassroots level.

Step 1: In democratic nations, the primary challenge often revolves around strengthening
democratic processes and ensuring their long-term sustainability. While issues like religious
conflicts, Naxal activities, and the importance of muscle power are important, the most
critical factor for a democracy is to deepen its roots. This involves promoting democratic
values, ensuring equal participation, and securing rights for all citizens.
Step 2: Democracy is not just about elections but about fostering an inclusive, participatory,
and accountable governance system. Deepening its roots means reinforcing these principles
at every level of society, addressing inequalities, and making sure that the democratic
institutions are resilient against external and internal threats.
Quick Tip: In democracies, the long-term strength comes from its people and institutions. Fostering a deeper democratic culture ensures stability and growth.

Step 1: Let’s analyze each statement one by one.
Statement 1: Under special circumstances, the Election Commission holds elections in a
particular constituency for a second time.
Reasoning: This statement is True. The Election Commission can call for re-elections under
special circumstances such as the death of a candidate or any significant event that may have
disrupted the election process in a constituency.
Statement 2: Coalition politics leads to instability.
Reasoning: This statement is True. Coalition politics often leads to instability because the
political parties involved may have conflicting ideologies, making it difficult to maintain a
consistent policy or government. This can lead to frequent changes in leadership or policy
direction.
Statement 3: Consumer movement came into existence.
Reasoning: This statement is True. The consumer movement emerged as a response to the
exploitation and unfair practices of businesses. It aims to protect the rights of consumers and
ensure fair trade and the provision of quality goods and services.
Quick Tip: In cases where elections are declared void, the Election Commission may call for a second election in the constituency.

Concept 1: Criminalisation of Politics
Explanation: Criminalisation of politics refers to the increasing involvement of criminals or
individuals with criminal backgrounds in political processes. This issue has been a growing
concern in many countries, where political leaders with criminal records are elected to office,
often contributing to corruption and misuse of power. Criminalisation of politics undermines
the democratic process by prioritizing personal gain and illegal practices over public service
and the well-being of the citizens.
Concept 2: Rights-based approach.Explanation: The rights-based approach is a framework that focuses on ensuring and
protecting the rights of individuals as enshrined in national and international laws. It involves
empowering individuals and communities to claim their rights and hold governments
accountable for any violations. This approach seeks to address inequality, promote social
justice, and ensure that every individual has access to fundamental human rights such as
education, health care, and freedom from discrimination.

Quick Tip: Criminalisation of politics can lead to a decline in public trust and the integrity of the political system.

Process of Elections
Explanation:
The concept map above outlines the steps involved in the process of elections. The following
are the key steps:
1. Establishment of Constituencies: Setting up different electoral constituencies for elections.
2. Preparation of Electoral Rolls: Ensuring that a valid voter list is available and updated.
3. Nomination of Candidates and Scrutiny of Their Nomination Forms: Candidates are
nominated, and their forms are examined for eligibility.
4. Campaigning: Candidates campaign to present their agendas and appeal to voters.
5. Actual Voting: Citizens cast their votes in the designated polling stations.
6. Counting of Votes: The votes are counted to determine the winner.
7. Results of Elections: The final results are declared, and the winning candidates are
announced.
Explanation:
The concept map above outlines the major challenges faced by Indian democracy:
1. Poverty: A significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line, which
hinders social and economic development.
2. Illiteracy: A large section of the population is illiterate, affecting informed voting and
civic participation.
3. Caste-based Discrimination: Despite legal measures, caste-based inequality and
discrimination still persist in many parts of the country.
4. Communalism: Religious tensions and communal violence continue to pose a challenge to
the secular fabric of Indian democracy.

Establishment of Social Justice
Explanation: The establishment of social justice refers to creating a society where all
individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, caste, religion, or gender, have equal
access to opportunities and resources. It aims to eliminate discrimination and ensure fairness
in the distribution of wealth, education, and other essential services. Social justice also
includes efforts to protect the marginalized and underprivileged groups in society, ensuring
their right to dignity, equality, and justice.

 Midterm Elections
Explanation: Midterm elections are elections that are held in the middle of a government’s
term, typically at the halfway point between general elections. In countries like the United
States, midterm elections are held to elect members of the legislature, such as the U.S.
Congress, while in other nations, they may include local or regional elections. Midterm
elections serve to assess the ruling party’s performance and can result in a shift in the balance
of power.
Quick Tip: The core idea of social justice is equality of opportunity, where every individual has the chance to achieve their potential regardless of background.